North East firefighters urge members of the public not to light fires this summer after hot, dry weather

North East firefighters are the public not to create more work for them, after seeing an increase of deliberate fires historically over the summer.

A number of wildfires have been spotted across the North East this week, in both Newcastle and Sunderland - which have shown how rapidly a blaze can spread.

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service say they are working closely with Northumbria Police to put preventative measures in place, to put a halt to needless arson. High visibility patrols, diversionary programmes and securing buildings which attract anti-social behaviour are just a few of the measures which will be put in place.

Read more: Heatwave chaos in North East with Metro and rail disruption and multiple fires amid 30°c temperatures

Area manager Dave Leach, of Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, said: “The summer holidays are now upon us and historically that has seen an increase in deliberate fire-setting. We work closely with our partners, including the police, to put preventative measures in place.

"That includes high visibility patrols, diversionary programmes, clearing up rubbish that could be used as fuel for a fire, and making sure buildings that attract anti-social behaviour are properly secure. Our partnership work has had huge success in reducing incidents but some of the wildfires we have seen across the country this week show the devastating speed at which a small fire can spread.

The aftermath of a grass fire in Sunderland (Craig Connor)

“Starting any fire always poses the risk of causing catastrophe and in some of the warm, dry conditions we have seen this summer that can be a huge problem. Grassed areas in particular can be particularly challenging to extinguish and can spread to neighbouring buildings that puts lives at risk and destroys homes.

“Those setting the fires could be putting their own safety at risk. It may be a cliché but you should never play with fire as it can be unforgiving. We would also ask members of the public to not leave glass in fields as in hot conditions that can cause a blaze. We would also urge you to ensure disposable barbeques are cooled down and disposed of safely.”

Read next:

• Is it too hot to work? Rules, advice and what your boss should do during heatwave
• The airports in Spain and Portugal with electronic gates for UK passports

• Popular North East beach named second most Instagrammable in the UK

• Look further afield and beat the crowds for this year's staycation

• Will schools shut as a result of the heatwave? Here's what the law states